Don't hire amateurs!
This is key, but far to often brides and grooms can fall into the trap of hiring on a whim, and not putting the extra time into making sure the person they are hiring for their event will do what they say they will do. Even amateurs can make it look like they are top class by manipulating photos, giving fake testimonials and making a snazzy website, but dig a little deeper, there are many who will not live up to the hype.
To avoid this always check the entertainer has VIDEO testimonials. If they really do a good job, past clients will be more than happy to give a glowing review. And finally check through their social media history, check there is a long flow of photos and LIVE performance videos that go back many years and not just 5 or 6 good photos. A professional will have thousands of photos from many years of work.
Make it work!
Many types of entertainment can work in harmony together, others not so much. Hiring a close up magician during the evening reception for example can be great, but not so much if the DJ is constantly talking over the microphone and stopping proceedings for ‘Games.’
Have a chat to your suppliers and they will be able to advise on how and when is best to use their services.
Check credentials!
It’s important that whatever entertainment you plan on getting, before booking make sure they have the correct insurance. ‘Equity’ is the entertainment standard and the logo should be displayed on the website. For magicians the biggest ‘seal of approval’ is being a member of the magic circle. Being a member of the magic circle is a hard thing to get into, and performers must be auditioned by other magicians and be approved for membership.
Don't Skimp on the entertainment budget!
This is often overlooked, but the entertainment on your big day will make or break your wedding. There are many down times during the day such as when the family photos are being taken and guests are just left milling about, during the room change over time or even during the meal. These are all times that unless filled with some kind of entertainment, your guests could be bored and hanging about, and that's surely not the impression you want guests to leave with “another boring wedding”
Don't fill this time with cheap entertainment or the wedding will be remembered as cheap. Invest in premium entertainment to ensure your wedding is remembered for years!
Don't leave it too long before booking!
Unfortunately so many great performers have to let down brides and groom who took to long to confirm the booking. They get hundreds of enquiries and it only takes one of those to be confirmed and ‘poof’ your date is gone and you will be left searching for second best and researching all over. I get booked up to 3 years in advance so just because you have 9 months until the date, don't leave be left in a false sense of security.
Bonus Tip!
Go with your gut instinct, if something doesn't feel right it probably isn't. If possible talk to your supplier on the phone and get a real feel for them and their business. And if hiring a magician, take the time to watch their videos and see if their 'style' will fit into you event and with your guests.
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